Sports

Premier League Urges Clubs To Keep VAR, Citing Reduced Errors And Reputational Risks

Story Highlights
  • Premier League makes a strong case to maintain VAR
  • Wanderers formally requested a vote on VAR's future
  • Removing VAR would breach existing contractual obligations

The Premier League is making a strong case for retaining Video Assistant Referees (VAR) ahead of a crucial vote by member clubs.

Key Points:

  • Clubs Receive VAR Briefing: The Premier League sent a document outlining the benefits of VAR to all 20 clubs before their annual meeting.
  • Wolves Triggered Vote: Wolverhampton Wanderers formally requested a vote on VAR’s future, sparking the current debate.
  • In-Game Announcements Likely: While the overall system remains, expect to hear VAR decisions announced during matches.
  • Premier League Claims:
    • Scrapping VAR would lead to an estimated 100 additional incorrect refereeing decisions per season, potentially impacting crucial matches.
    • Last season saw only 5 incorrect VAR interventions compared to 105 correct ones, demonstrating improvement.
    • Removing VAR would breach existing contractual obligations regarding VAR operation costs.
    • The Premier League’s reputation could be damaged if it becomes the only major European league to abandon VAR.
    • English referees would miss out on important assignments in UEFA and FIFA competitions if they lack experience with VAR.

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